It's officially winter as the warm coats, scarf and gloves have made it from the back to the front of our cupboards.

The change in the weather system can be a shock to our bodies, especially to vulnerable and elderly people whose risks of serious health issues are higher in the winter.

Making sure you are warm inside and outside your home can help reduce risk of chest infections, heart attacks and strokes.

So with the help of a Hounslow -based care provider, Avant Healthcare Services, here are five top tips to keeping warm this winter.

  1. Heating checks : Get your heating system serviced every year by a qualified gas safety engineer to ensure its running safely and efficiently keeping your home warm
  2. Clothing: Wear plenty of layers and correct footwear. Wear several thin layers rather than one thick as the layer’s trap warm air within
  3. Maintain body weight: Eating and drinking plenty of a varied diet will keep your immune system strong and provide you with the necessary energy for warmth
  4. Stay active: Exercise can help warm you up as well as having numerous health benefits. Avoid sitting still for too long to maintain warmth
  5. Weather forecasts: Check local news and weather forecasts for advice when cold weather is predicted. Taking the necessary precautions will help you when the weather hits

The weather has been up and down in recent weeks, with Storm Angus causing flash floods in parts of west London , followed by a frosty start to December with the weather warming up again last week.

Keep up to date with the latest news in west London via the free getwestlondon app.

You can even set it to receive push notifications for all the breaking news in your area.

Available to download from the App Store or Google Play for Android now!